Visual field testing uses a white light to measure the extent of both the
central and peripheral vision. A central visual field is used to evaluate the
macula. The macula is the area responsible for seeing fine detail. The
peripheral visual field is used to evaluate your side vision and any
glaucomatous changes.

In automated perimetry, stimuli are presented in a randomized fashion as the
visual fields are explored. Different test patterns are chosen based on the
patient s ocular or neurological condition. In order for this test to be
reliable, patient cooperation is crucial. The field analyzers have a normative
patient database built into the instrument s computer for comparison. This
database is divided by age, since the sensitivity of the visual field declines
with an increase in age.